A new analysis commissioned by the San Antonio Area Foundation and conducted by the News Revenue Hub offers a detailed look at how well local news outlets are serving communities across the greater San Antonio region. The 113-page report suggests there is significant room for improvement.
The study, which explored both what residents want from local news and what is currently being delivered, was conducted in three parts: a community survey, a comprehensive mapping of local news providers, and a needs assessment of those outlets.
The result is a snapshot of the region’s news ecosystem — one that appears to be functioning well in some areas, but falling short in many others, particularly when it comes to equitable coverage across diverse communities.
Of the 649 residents surveyed across the eight-county area, many reported feeling underserved by existing local media. A common concern was the lack of information that is specific to individual neighborhoods or counties.
While many respondents said they rely on digital sources and social media to stay informed — mirroring national trends — rural residents indicated they still depend on print newspapers and Facebook groups. Even so, these communities said they often feel left in the dark.
The study identified 39 outlets producing original local content in the region. Among them, the San Antonio Report, San Antonio Express-News, KSAT-12, and Texas Public Radio were found to have the greatest focus on San Antonio and Bexar County, with the Report publishing the highest percentage of local coverage.
Although some outlets are focused on specific counties or communities of color, researchers noted that most local content continues to center on San Antonio proper, leaving outlying areas with limited coverage.
Roughly half of the survey respondents expressed dissatisfaction with the depth and quality of local news. While some praised individual stories or outlets, the broader sentiment was that important issues are being overlooked.
Crime reporting dominates much of the region’s media coverage, the analysis found, while issues such as education, housing, climate and development are underreported. These are precisely the topics community members said they want to see more frequently in local coverage.
Newsrooms are aware of these gaps and many have plans to expand their coverage and better serve their audiences. However, financial constraints remain a major hurdle. Outlets reported needing additional revenue-generating staff, technology upgrades and broader support to grow their audiences sustainably.
With the San Antonio area experiencing rapid growth, the report suggests there is an opportunity for local media to play a more impactful role in informing, engaging and representing the region’s diverse communities.
But to do so, the study concludes, outlets will need increased investment — both financially and from the communities they aim to serve.
